Drowning is a leading cause of death for younger children, so it is important to keep your backyard pool safe. Even if your young children know how to swim, they should not be considered drown-proof and should always be supervised around the water.

In addition to not leaving your children alone around a pool, you can keep your kids safe by:

• Putting a fence around your pool with a self-closing and self-latching gate

• Locking or childproofing all exits from your house that lead to the pool

• Leaving a telephone by the pool so that you can quickly call for help if you need it

• Keeping toys away from the sides of the pool so that you don't attract younger children, who might fall in

• Storing rescue equipment near the pool so you are ready in an emergency

Infant Swimming Lessons

Although the AAP doesn't recommend formal swimming lessons until age five, that doesn't mean that you can't take your infant in the water.

Aquatic programs are also popular at this age, and although these are not really swimming lessons, they can help you get your baby used to being in the water.

Just remember, whether as part of a class or in your pool at home, if your baby is in the water, keep your hands on her at all times.

Indoor Water Safety

Pools aren't the only drowning risk for younger children. A crawling baby can pull up on a bucket, fall in, and quickly drown. Other hazards include the bathtub, toilet, and any other container of water.

Remember to never leave your infant alone near any water, not even for just a few seconds, which is more than enough time for your baby to drown. Don't assume that a bath ring or seat will be enough to keep your baby safe — these are meant to make bath time easier, not provide supervision.